Arsenal are set to fail in their attempts to sign Juventus wingback Andrea Cambiaso, according to Tuttosport.
The Italian newspaper claims that the Gunners and Manchester United had “moved decisively” to contact the 24-year-old’s agent about a potential transfer this summer.
However, despite believing that Cambiaso could be worth between €40m (£34m) and €45m (£38m), Juve are determined to keep hold of him, with sporting director Cristiano Giuntoli set to hold talks with his representatives over a new contract.
The deal is likely to extend to the summer of 2028, with the Italian international also set for a significant increase in his salary.
Why were Arsenal pursuing Cambiaso?
The defender/midfielder would have been ideal for Mikel Arteta’s inverted fullback role. This season, he has played at left wingback, right wingback, on the right wing, at left-back and in central midfield.
Cambiaso also doesn’t have a weak foot, which means he is just as comfortable on either flank. It makes him a superb option to have in the squad.
Is Edu looking at alternatives?
There have been plenty of reports in Turkey that the Gunners are interested in Fenerbahce’s Ferdi Kadioglu. He is another left-back who has experience of playing in midfield so there are credible reasons for why Arteta would be keen on him. However, some journalists in the UK have poured cold water on the rumours.
Even if they don’t pursue Kadioglu or Cambiaso, sporting director Edu will surely be looking to strengthen the club’s options on the left-hand side of defence. Kieran Tierney is expected to leave on a permanent basis this summer following his loan spell at Real Sociedad, while there are also doubts about the future of Oleksandr Zinchenko, who has had problems with form and fitness this campaign.
